What are the results of the bad practice of Topping* a tree?
If a tree has been subjected to the unfortunate practice of “Topping” many problems result.
- Large limbs are stubbed off, rendering the tree ruined and unsightly
- entry ports for insects and diseases are created
- masses of vigorous, upright “water sprouts” emerge from the stubs and they are not structurally sound, as normal branching would be
- a large quantity of photosynthesizing leaves are removed, resulting in too little photosynthesis for the remaining root system
- leaf cover that shades the trunk is removed and buds that would form a normal branching pattern are eliminated
- Ultimately, Crabapple LandscapExperts may advise that the topped tree is better removed
(Last week Crabapple explained the bad practice of topping .
